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Neopolitan Mastiff / Neapolitan Mastiff
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Italian cousin to England’s Mastiff and France’s Dogue de Bordeaux.
The Neopolitan is a somewhat newer breed than those dogs but with an ancient history. It is said that this dogs roots go back to the ancient war dogs used by the Romans and possibly even further back to the giant Molossus of Alexander the Great.
After a distinguished military career, the dogs remaining in southern Italy eventually settled into jobs as estate guardians. They are also known as the Mastino.
A faithful companion, the Neopolitan Mastiff guards his home, hearth, and family with his imposing appearance and confidence. He is also highly protective and fearless, probably due to his early fighting background.
It is said that the Italians created this dog to amaze and astonish those that do not know the breed by creating those fantastic wrinkles and unforgettable head, it's massive bone structure and lumbering movement, whose looks alone are often enough to deter any potential intruders.
They generally like children, but because they are so large, could unintentionally cause an injury, so Neapolitan Mastiffs should not be left unsupervised with small children.
Adult Neapolitan Mastiffs need a great deal of exercise, drool quite heavily, and eat a lot - adults eat probably about 8-10 cups of dog food a day.
Enjoy a short dog breed video
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a giant dog that can reach 29 inches in height and weigh more than 150 pounds at maturity, with males considerably larger and weighing more than females. Due to his massive size he is also relatively short-lived with a normal life expectancy of 8 to 10 years.
The Neopolitan is a dog of large bone and massive muscle, often referred to as bestial in appearance. He has pendulous folds of abundant, hanging wrinkles of skin that hang from his head and neck, giving him a sad sack appearance that belies his alert and intelligent character.
Smooth-coated, the Neapolitan Mastiff is usually blue-gray, black, mahogany, or tawny in color, with or without brindle markings. He can have small white patches on his chest and on the tips of his toes.
Country of origin: Europe
Lifespan: 8-10 years
Colors: Black, blue, chocolate (rare), solid, brindle. A little white is permitted on the chest and toes
Known health problems: Hip dysplasia, pano-ostiosis ("growing pains"), cherry eye
Famous Neopolitan Mastiff Dogs: Fang in the Harry Potter films; Alan, in the film Babe: Pig in the City
More Photos to Enjoy
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Return from Neopolitan Mastiff to Working Dog Group
